MCAS Miramar Air Show: Oct. 4 and 5

Because of sequestration this event will be smaller, and without the trademark Blue Angels performance. Instead you’ll see popular civilian pilots, while most military planes will be parked for viewing.

Julian Apple Days Festival: Oct. 5 and 6

Julian’s weekend-long festival will include apples, an antique tractor display, children’s games, gold-panning demonstrations, music, dancing, food, and a beer and wine garden. And yes, there will be plenty of pie.

Little Italy Festa: Oct. 13

This free neighborhood festival features Italian cooking demonstrations, a boccie ball tournament, an Italian motor sports exhibit and more. But it’s the works of the masterful chalk artists at the Gesso Italiano competition that make the event a local standout.

La Jolla Art and Wine Festival: Oct. 12 and 13

Enjoy art and wine in a family-friendly environment at this fifth annual event. Along with juried art from regional artists, there will also be dance performances, live music, interactive kids activities and Baja wines.

San Diego Beer Week: Nov. 1 to 10

Obviously this event is longer than a week, but after a few beers you probably won’t care about technicalities. What is important is that there will be everything from beer brunches to cask tasting events, as well as the San Diego Brewers Guild Festival party happening Nov. 1-2 on Broadway Pier.

Events happen at various locations. Check sdbw.org for detailed information.

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San Diego Bay Wine and Food Festival: Nov. 20 to 24

Join heavyweight chefs and vintners for this 10th annual event that features decadent dinners, wine and food pairings, cooking classes and more. An outdoor Grand Tasting Event held Nov. 23 is the can’t-miss activity.

Events happen at various locations. Check here for detailed information.

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SoNo Park Holiday Fest and Chilipalooza: Dec. 1

This newish event keeps growing thanks to its combination of unique shopping, craft beer, local music and chili from area restaurants like Alchemy, The Smoking Goat and Tiger! Tiger!

December Nights: Dec. 6 and 7

San Diego may not bring much in the way of an idyllic “White Christmas,” but for the past 35 years, people from all over the county have gathered at Balboa Park for the free celebration, which features everything from performances of “The Nutcracker” and an artist village to carolers and foods from around the world.